Jayanna Rodriguez’s journey to graduation was anything but ordinary. Born in Connecticut, raised in New York, and then returning to Connecticut as a teenager, she experienced firsthand the subtle yet real cultural differences between the two states.
Her path to higher education was equally winding. Rodriguez first came to Goodwin University during the pandemic, planning to pursue her AS in Funeral Service. Facing personal challenges, including emergency housing and work obligations, she realized the rigorous requirements of that program were too overwhelming at the time. She shifted her focus to the Human Services program.
Community and support
Even amid difficult circumstances, Rodriguez found an unwavering support system at Goodwin. “Everyone was super accommodating,” recalling her early days at Goodwin. “It’s definitely a very close-knit community.”
Faculty, staff, and classmates offered guidance and resources when she needed them most, from helping with assignments to connecting her with career opportunities. “The staff at Goodwin is so supportive. You tell one person your story, and now they’re finding resources for you. Now they’re sending you emails. They want you to succeed,” she explains. At Goodwin, Jayana felt a strong sense of connection. “You’re so intertwined with the community, the staff, the professors, even your fellow classmates.”
Her experience was made better by Goodwin’s hallmark personalized support services, ensuring all students can thrive.
Speaking from the heart
Rodriguez’s resilience and perspective culminated in being asked to deliver Goodwin’s 2025 student commencement address. She was nominated by faculty and staff to put into words what she and her peers had earned through months and years of hard work and dedication. She drew inspiration from her own journey and the challenges faced by students like her from diverse backgrounds.
Despite nerves and the pressure of addressing a large audience, Rodriguez prepared diligently, practicing her speech with family and friends. Her words resonated deeply with graduates and attendees alike because of her authentic storytelling and subtle humor.
Check out Jayanna’s full commencement address on YouTube!
Balancing life and ambition
Rodriguez’s story is even more remarkable because she accomplished all of this while navigating major life events. During her final semester, she managed full-time coursework, an internship at the Hospital for Special Care’s outpatient autism unit, and a pregnancy. Jayanna had her baby very shortly after graduation.
Her dedication extends beyond academics. Rodriguez’s passion for Human Services, particularly supporting the autistic population, drives her ambition to continue growing professionally. She plans to pursue a master’s degree and become a licensed social worker. As she puts it, “I like to collect achievements like Pokémon cards. I literally want them all.” Her goal is to build a resumé that reflects everything she plans to accomplish while balancing a full life.
Looking ahead
Rodriguez encourages prospective students to consider Goodwin for more than just academics. She highlights the University’s sense of community and the opportunities it provides to find one’s place and thrive.
With graduation behind her, Rodriguez is eager to continue her journey at Goodwin, hoping to join the University’s team professionally. She is enthusiastic, ambitious, and ready to make her mark in Human Services.
Her path — from navigating personal hardships to standing on the stage at commencement — is a testament to her resilience and the empowering environment at Goodwin University.
Like Jayanna Rodriguez, you can discover your niche at Goodwin University. Explore programs in Human Services and other in-demand fields designed to help you grow, succeed, and make a difference. Apply today and start your journey.
Grace Kuraska is a marketing content writer at Goodwin University where she combines her passion for creativity and storytelling to craft engaging content that resonates with readers. She graduated from University of Connecticut, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in English with a minor in Sociology. Grace brings years of experience in writing, editing, and proofreading to craft compelling narratives that connect with audiences and inspire action.